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Mother of infant burned to death arrested

Posted at 4:08 PM, Jul 25, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-25 17:08:23-04

The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal, in collaboration with the Natchitoches Police Department, has arrested the mother of a baby who was found murdered. Hannah Barker, 22, was booked with principal to first-degree murder in connection with the homicide of her son, Levi Cole Ellerbe. The baby was found burned off Breda Avenue on July 17. Earlier this week, Natchitoches resident Felicia Marie-Nicole Smith was arrested for 1st Degree Murder in the case. Investigators say Smith and Barker were known to each other prior to the homicide. An additional charge is expected to be brought against Smith. “I want to highlight the determination and dedication of the team of investigators from both agencies who have doggedly worked this case from the start,” said State Fire Marshal Chief H. “Butch” Browning, “Rest assured, that diligent work is not over yet.” The investigation remains on-going and no further information will be released at this time. Related Stories:Woman, 25, accused of burning baby to death6-month-old dies after being kidnapped, burned in Natchitoches